Lincoln Theatre Helping Artists Reach Their Full Potential

Me and my fellow Lincoln Theatre Artist Incubation Program graduates.

I'm honored to be a graduate of the 2016 Lincoln Theatre Artist Incubation Program.  Now in its third year, the program helps artists from all different genres in my hometown of Columbus, Ohio, to hone our creativity and learn about the business side of show business.

Me and my fellow graduates celebrated with a Dec. 8 ceremony in the Lincoln Theatre's ballroom. Larry James, president of the Lincoln Theatre Association Board, and Greater Columbus Arts Council President and CEO Tom Katzenmeyer gave inspiring "commencement" speeches, encouraging us artists to keep pursuing our dreams. 

Over the course of the year-long incubation program, a subject-matter expert presented on a particular topic during each monthly session. Topics included:

Maximizing production value (ensuring your production is of the highest quality, even with limited resources).

Insurance (such as purchasing single-event insurance coverage to make sure all performers and equipment are covered in case any mishap occurs during a concert, play or other performance).

Copyright and trademark law (making sure your own work is protected and ensuring that you don't infringe on anyone else's copyrighted material).

Grants (how to identify individuals and organizations who support the arts and tailor your application to their criteria).

One of the most helpful sessions  was conducted by Lincoln Theatre General Manager Suzan Bradford, who is also artistic director of the Thiossane West African Dance Institute. Suzan walked us through how to accurately value our services so that we are compensated accordingly. 

The program also included Mentor Talks with working artists such as drummer Reggie Jackson, who has toured and recorded with major artists in all musical genres and performed at festivals around the world.  Reggie offered advice on how to build a career and establish mutually beneficial relationships in the entertainment industry, and stressed the importance of being professional, showing up on time and constantly perfecting your skills. 

I will apply what I learned from the Lincoln Theatre Artist Incubation Program in every facet of my work. Completing the program was like earning an advanced degree, and being armed with this knowledge is invaluable.